Stanley Thurmond's Obituary
Stanley Leroy Thurmond, 75, was born on January 15, 1951, in Chattanooga to the late Leroy and Rosie Thurmond. He peacefully transitioned to his heavenly home on May 1, 2026, at his residence.
He was a proud graduate of Riverside High School, Class of 1968, in Chattanooga, Tennessee. At an early age, he accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as his Savior and united with Greater Tucker Missionary Baptist Church. On January 1, 1973, he united with Thankful Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of the late Reverend Sullivan Coleman. A faithful and dedicated servant, Stanley worked tirelessly in many areas of ministry throughout his years at Thankful. He served as a Sunday School Teacher, Superintendent of Sunday School, Chairman of the Deacon Ministry, Bible Study Teacher, member of the Christian Education Board, and Treasurer of the Finance Ministry. His wisdom, leadership, and unwavering faith left a lasting impact on his church family and community.
On March 29, 1975, Stanley was united in Holy Matrimony to the love of his life, Geraldine “Gerri” Thurmond. Together, they shared 51 beautiful years of love, faith, partnership, and devotion.
He began his career with Electric Power Board of Chattanooga on July 10, 1972. Through dedication and hard work, he served faithfully for 39 years before retiring in 2011 as a Construction Supervisor. He was respected not only for his work ethic and leadership, but also for the kindness and integrity he displayed to everyone he encountered.
Beyond his professional and church service, Stanley was well known throughout the community for his unwavering commitment to helping others. He shared a close friendship and longstanding bond with the late Leamon Pierce, with whom he worked alongside for many years in community involvement and various business endeavors, including the Best Bonding Company.
Stanley was preceded in death by his parents, Leroy and Rosie Thurmond; his beloved son, Michael “Derek” Thurmond; his sister, Joan Talley; and his father- and mother-in-law, Reverend Sullivan and Lovie Coleman.
He leaves to cherish his precious memories: his loving and devoted wife, Geraldine “Gerri” Thurmond; son, Patrick Thurmond; bonus sons, Dexter (Sandra) King and Chris Ferguson; brother, Steve (Evelynia) Thurmond; devoted niece, Clarinda Lynn Johnson; aunt, Hattie Johnson Mathis of Miami; uncle, A.J. Johnson of Los Angeles; goddaughters, Shalya Griffin, Kristi Adams, and Naomi Evans; godson, Jeremiah Adams; brothers-in-law, Calvin Coleman and Cleon (Paula) Coleman; sisters-in-law, Linda (Pastor Alonzo) Noble and Janice (Pastor Steve) Bearden; along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and many dear friends. He also leaves behind special friends who held a meaningful place in his life: Frank and Bernice Davis, Alan Blake and Knecole Russell.
Stanley will be lovingly remembered for his quiet strength, steadfast faith, servant’s heart, and the genuine love he shared with his family, church, friends, and community. His legacy of kindness, leadership, and devotion will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
Stanley will lie-in-state on Friday, May 15, 2026, from 1 - 5 p.m. at Taylor Funeral Home. Funeral service will be held Saturday, May 16, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. in the Chapel with Dr. Mack E. Page, Sr., as the Eulogist. Burial in Greenwood Cemetery.
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